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Join a small group guided tour to see the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern with skip the line tickets. Discover the history of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires with expert guides.

Highlights

• Visit two major highlights of Istanbul on a group tour led by an expert guide.
• Explore the world-famous Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern with tickets.
• Learn about the rich history and culture of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires.
• Enjoy included admission tickets for Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern.
• Get tips from your guide at the end of the tour to explore Istanbul's old town.

Description

Guided Tour In Istanbul: Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern with Tickets Join an exclusive small group tour of Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, led by an expert local guide. Enjoy priority admission to skip the longest lines at the ticket office and start learning about the fascinating lives of the Ottomans sooner. Meet your guide in the Sultanahmet neighborhood at an easy spot for a walking tour of Istanbul's greatest monuments. Begin your journey with the Basilica Cistern, also known as the 'Subterranean Palace.' Discover its history, see the underground pillars, and learn about Byzantine architecture. Walk on wooden walkways over the water and view the famous upside-down Medusa heads. Next, visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul. As you explore the interior, learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the stunning monument and its mixed elements mosque and a church coexisting side by side. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome, minarets, countless mosaics, paintings, and Roman columns. Discover how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was created, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard. Walk the famous Byzantine Hippodrome learning about the obelisks and its importance in the daily life of the city. Concluding in Sultanahmet Square, our tour leaves you equipped with ample knowledge and insights to navigate the enchanting streets of Istanbul independently. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the heart of this historic city. Starting From Galataport Option for Cruise Guests If you're on a cruise holiday with a stop in Istanbul, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s rich history. Choose Galataport cruise port as your meeting point, where your guide will welcome you upon arrival. From Galataport, travel by tram to the historic Sultanahmet district with your guide. Discover the stunning Hagia Sophia and the ancient Basilica Cistern, with skip-the-line tickets for a seamless and unforgettable tour of these iconic Istanbul landmarks.

Includes

Priority admission tickets for Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Professional and local guide with a license 2 hours guided tour Headsets to hear the guide better Pick up from Galata port and tram ride to old town ( if on a cruise ship )

Important Information

• You will have to pass through airport-style security, which may be long in high season and during holidays.
• Hagia Sophia may be closed unannounced due to high-level state visits.
• If Basilica Cistern is closed, we visit Şerefiye (cistern of Theodosius) or Binbirdirek (Cistern of Philoxenos).
• Basilica Cistern has 50 steps going down and then up. There is no lift.
• Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.
• It is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.
• Please note that women should wear a headscarf when entering the mosque.
• Please note that both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
• Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund